Fermented Ginger Bug

Name: Fermented Ginger Bug
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 16 servings
Cuisine: Fusion
Ingredients: 1/2 cup fresh organic ginger root; 1/2 cup organic cane sugar; 4 cups filtered water (non-chlorinated)

A naturally fermented ginger starter culture used to make probiotic sodas and tonics, packed with beneficial bacteria and a zippy, spicy flavor.

15 minMediumServes 1610 cal/serving

FusionNon-Alcoholic DrinkFermentedVeganVegetarianLow CarbGluten-FreeDairy-FreeLow-SodiumPork-FreeNightshade-FreeCorn-Free

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Ingredients

1/2 cup fresh organic ginger root
1/2 cup organic cane sugar
4 cups filtered water (non-chlorinated)

Instructions

1

Clean a quart-sized glass jar thoroughly with hot soapy water and rinse well.
2

Grate 1/2 cup fresh organic ginger root finely, leaving the skin on if organic. You should have about 2-3 tablespoons to start.
3

Add the grated ginger and 2 tablespoons of 1/2 cup organic cane sugar to the jar.
4

Pour in 2 cups of 4 cups filtered water (non-chlorinated), leaving at least 1-2 inches of headspace at the top of the jar.
5

Stir vigorously with a non-metal spoon until the sugar is dissolved.
6

Cover the jar with a coffee filter or clean cloth and secure with a rubber band to keep out dust and insects while allowing air flow.
7

Place the jar in a warm spot in your kitchen, ideally 70-75°F (21-24°C).
8

Every day for the next 5-7 days, feed the ginger bug by adding 1 tablespoon grated ginger and 1 tablespoon sugar. Stir vigorously each time.
9

The ginger bug is ready when it becomes fizzy, bubbles form at the top, and it gives off a pleasant, yeasty smell (usually after 5-7 days).
10

Once active, store in the refrigerator with a tight lid and feed once a week with 1 tablespoon each of ginger and sugar to keep it alive.
11

To use, strain off 1/4 to 1/2 cup of the liquid (not the ginger pieces) to flavor and carbonate homemade sodas and tonics.

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Questions

Is Fermented Ginger Bug keto-friendly?

A serving of Fermented Ginger Bug carries 2 g of carbohydrate. Against a strict 20 g keto day that is 10 percent of the budget; against a moderate 100 g low-carb day it is 2 percent.

How many calories are in Fermented Ginger Bug?

One serving (the recipe makes 16) is about 10 calories, with 0 g protein, 2 g carbohydrate and 0 g fat, plus 15 mg sodium. The figures are estimates computed from the ingredient list.

Can I batch Fermented Ginger Bug for a group?

Yes. As written it serves 16. Halved, the ginger drops from 1/2 cup to 1/4 cup; doubled, it is 1 cup. Every line in this entry carries its half and double quantity, and the app's batch dial rewrites them inside each step. To make a pitcher, multiply everything and stir over ice at the end.

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